The ePRF project will enable St John ambulance officers to access and share patient information with other health providers, such as General Practitioners, social workers and nurses.

Mrs Vallender said St John Ashburton was close to reaching its target of raising about $20,000 per ambulance for the project. There are four ambulances in Ashburton.

Ashburton Mayor Angus McKay said the Community Contact Week programme was a win-win for everyone. "In particular, it's an opportunity for medical students to gain a good understanding of local government's role in relation to community health and wellbeing."